CARDIFF City have landed a mouthwatering home game against Stoke City on the first Saturday of the new season.

The Bluebirds fixtures for the 2007-08 campaign were released today and the computer has handed Dave Jones’ side a Ninian Park opener for the first time since City beat Wycombe Wanderers 1-0 in 2001.

And the fact they will play a Stoke team managed by Welshman Tony Pulis who will have just as much promotion ambition as Cardiff, adds to the anticipation.

City follow up that game with league trips to QPR and Norwich, either side of a home encounter with Coventry. Their next major test looks to be on Tuesday September 15, when Watford, relegated from the Premiership last term, come to Ninian Park.

Other games which will particularly interest supporters will be the return of the Severnside derby against Bristol City at Ashton Gate on December 15, a Boxing Day clash with Watford at Vicarage Road and a New Year’s Day joust at Plymouth Argyle.

The Bluebirds also conclude the season at home – to Barnsley on May 4.